Do you work out to feel good, look good—or strengthen your brain? That last one is as good a reason as any: Scientific evidence shows people who engage in regular, sustained physical activity tend to have more vigorous minds than those who don’t.

Exercise provides a variety of benefits, including increased blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Physical activity also helps sharpen and focus the mind.

A 2019 study found that playing sports appears to “tune” a person’s brain to understand their sensory environment better. The research highlights an ability many athletes possess to block out specific noises, such as the roar of a stadium crowd in order to better focus on a particular sound. Athletes’ mental focus and toughness are powerful. And regular activity could make you powerful enough to block out distracting noises to focus solely on the task at hand.

Physical activity can also lead to heightened environmental perception. Being active helps the brain to create more electrical impulses, or activity. Once electrical activity increases, it causes the brain to become more focused and aware. Good athletes, or people who are regularly physically active, display enhanced perception and awareness.

Some scientific research concludes that "brain noise" can affect the brain’s neurons. When a person has too much neural activity, their brain starts to create more distracting "noise." This may be one reason why those with ADHD, or similar neurological conditions, struggle to remain still, concentrate and stay on task. But studies show people who engage in physical activity can calm this brain noise by helping to keep their neurons from constantly firing. This is one reason why physicians recommend sports activities to children who are suffering from hyperactivity disorders. Structured physical activity helps to keep them calm, engaged and focused.

Physical activity can calm stress and alleviate depression. Because being active focuses the mind, it helps you tune out stressful events happening around you. Physical activity also releases hormones that assist in eliminating stress, worry and other negative feelings and emotions. Engaging in exercise or sports-related activities can also provide a break from depressive thoughts or emotions.

Physical activity is essential for keeping your mind sharp, focused and healthy. It also has been found to be protective against neurological diseases, including certain forms of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease. Science has proven numerous times that physical activity helps people sleep better and improves their ability to learn.

Ultimately, a person’s brain works better when they play sports or engage in consistent physical activity.